“Oh hey!” Ty said as he bumped into Si at the entrance of the pub.

“Hello stranger. It’s been aaaaa-ges!” Si replied as arms hesitantly reached for an expected hug.

“Yeah it has!…” Ty responded, he started to fumble his keys in his pocket

“What brings you here?” Si continued.

“Oh, I’m meeting a friend and this pub was the one just about in the middle of us.

“Ah I see. How is that pole of yours?” Si enquired with a wink. Ty shuffled his feet, the awkward question dug memories of a unwanted past. He glanced back quickly as he was aware he could be blocking others from getting in.

“You know, the pole dancing.” Si elaborated, seeing the unease in Ty’s movement.

“Oh I don’t do that anymore.” Ty’s eyes dart to the inside of the pub, hoping to see his friend.

“Ah, shame. You looked good handling the pole.”

“Yeah… it wasn’t for me.” Ty retorted. “I’m going to see if my friend is inside, but catch you later maybe.”

“Sur-“

Ty walked on and pushed open the pub door.